Eight stars
Always pleased to read another novel by Mike Omer, I grabbed his latest psychological thriller in hopes of a great experience. Omer develops a dark story that is full of pieces, though none of them appear to fit together with ease. As the story progresses, things begin to slowly make sense and the ordeal a small girl makes a little more sense to those who are trying to help. Omer delivers once more and kept me hooked until the final pages.
The day Kathy Stone disappeared caused panic for the entire community. Thirteen months later, when the eight-year-old was seen wandering on the side of the road, new panic gripped the town, as no one as quite she what Kathy had seen. Kathy remains silent, speaking to no one at all, which means there is surely some deep trauma that will have to be coaxed out slowly.
After taking Kathy to see child therapist, Robin Hart, there appears to be some progress, albeit baby steps. Through the use of play therapy, Robin has been able to get Kathy to hint at some of her memories while in captivity. Play time turns quite dark as the dolls Kathy uses show signs if being chained up, slashed, and at times, even tortured to the point of death. Each session beings a new memory to the surface and another doll perishes under Kathy's guidance.
The most chilling aspect of all, each of Kathy's play sessions appears to enact an unsolved murder in the surrounding communities, as though she has witnessed them. She could be a goldmine for the police to solve these cases, but Robin keeps her client under strict protection, keeping the truth from traumatising the little girl too much. Might Kathy hold the key to solving these murders and perhaps be able to tell of future events that could be stopped? Robin has a decision to make and one that she does not take lightly. Mike Omer sends chills up the spine of the reader in this one that is sure to keep the pages turning.
When Mike Omer writes, I take notice. I discovered the author a few years ago and have been impressed with his work. The narrative base is always well developed and keeps the reader in the centre of the action. As things progress, the story's momentum gains traction and the energy follows suit soon thereafter. With great characters and strong settings, Omer is able to build up a strong flavoring in his story that appeals to many.
In a story such as this one, plot twists make or break the novel. Omer knows how to use them effectively, while also teasing out the unpredictable nature of their use to further the plot. The reader is in for a treat with this piece, which offers some eerie insights as things progress and the truth finally comes out. I cannot wait to see what's next for Mike Omer!
Kudos, Mr. Omer, for impressing me once more.
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